Comporta Beach House

This Comporta project was more than a renovation — it was a complete reinvention, where architecture, design, art, and landscape seamlessly intertwine to create an authentic and immersive retreat.

The original house, characterised by dark, disconnected finishes that felt out of place in a beach refuge, was transformed into a bright and serene sanctuary. The sand-toned structure now mirrors the natural surroundings, while the walls were treated with a handcrafted spatula-applied plaster, creating a subtle marble-like effect. Natural wood finishes introduce warmth and balance, evoking the effortless simplicity and elegance of Comporta’s aesthetic.

A reconfiguration of spaces introduced additional rooms, including an extra bedroom and a dedicated laundry area, enhancing both functionality and comfort. In the master suite, the balcony was reimagined as an indoor garden with a freestanding bathtub, offering a private retreat where bathing becomes an immersive experience in nature.

The outdoor areas were meticulously redesigned to function as seamless extensions of the home, enhancing the outdoor living experience. New covered lounge areas were created at both the front and rear façades, along with a spa featuring a heated pool. A barbecue area with an integrated bar became the home’s informal social hub, inviting leisurely gatherings and long conversations.

Art played a defining role in shaping the project’s identity. The client, an avid art enthusiast, curated a collection of works by Portuguese artists, integrating them harmoniously into the home’s narrative. These carefully selected pieces add depth and expression, establishing a meaningful connection to contemporary Portuguese culture.

A distinctive element of the project was a collaboration with an artisanal rug manufacturer, where color emerges as a vibrant counterpoint amidst the home’s neutral palette. These custom-designed rugs bring unexpected visual rhythm, defining different zones while adding a layer of rich sensory contrast.

The landscape design was crafted with intentionality and precision, shaped by the client’s expertise in plant life. In close collaboration with a team of landscape architects, a garden was created that respects the local ecosystem while enhancing the home’s connection to its natural setting. The result is a living, dynamic backdrop where vegetation frames each space, transforming every moment spent in this sanctuary.

This project embodies the soul of Comporta — a place where art, nature, and materiality intertwine, creating a refuge where time slows and every detail invites contemplation.